Lino is the new tool in the fight against MRSA (From The Argus)

Lino is the new tool in the fight against MRSA

1:27pm Monday 14th July 2008 in

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Health bosses have unveiled the latest weapon in the fight against hospital superbugs - lino.

The floor covering, now known by the brand name Marmoleum, has bacteria killing properties which can tackle strains of MRSA.

It has also been shown to help with stopping the spread of bugs such as the Norovirus, which causes sickness and diarrhoea and can force hospitals to close wards while they stem the spread of infection.

Eastbourne District General Hospital is the latest of several around the UK to install the material, which is biodegradable and has a life span of at least 25 years.

The last remaining factory to make the product, Forbo-Nairn in Scotland, has been in business for more than 100 years.

It revealed its turnover soared in 2007 to more than £34 million.

A spokesman for East Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the DGH and the Conquest Hospital in St Leonards, said: "Marmoleum floor covering has recently been laid in a couple of areas at the DGH - the main entrance and one ward.

"We are currently evaluating its performance and will consider using it in other areas of the trust following this evaluation."

For more information about health in your area visit the local information section of this website.

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